IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean 2023

FULL EVENT SOLD OUT!

Join us through the Virtual Conference!

Register here!

Connect | Grow | Get Inspired

The IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean is the most exclusive opportunity to connect with the entertainment and attractions industry in the region, bringing together the decision makers in an exclusive and relaxed environment to access fresh ideas and perspectives, share insights, find valuable business opportunities, and create lasting relationships.

• Deepen your industry knowledge and get inspired by like-minded professionals from all kinds of parks and attractions and stay updated on the latest trends in the industry.
• Grow your professional network with effective, high-value business connections.
• Meet potential clients, advance your career, and grow your brand in a collaborative and exclusive atmosphere.
• Go behind the scenes of some the most unique attractions of Cancun and Riviera Maya to learn about their operation, processes, and best practices while you enjoy a destination recognized worldwide for its natural beauty and sustainability that blends extraordinarily with the local parks and attractions.

This four-day Summit will include two days of educational sessions, keynote presentations, attractions tours and Trade Connections Exhibits, plus two days of EDUTours and valuable networking opportunities.

• Full Event in-person registration (April 24-27) includes - SOLD OUT: Two full days of conferences with simultaneous English-Spanish translation, lunches, Trade Connections exhibits and evening attractions tours and receptions, plus two additional full days of EDUTours with lunch and receptions. Transportation to and from Cancun Center convention center to the EDUTours and receptions are included the four event days. Lodging, air transportation, and airport pickups are not included. 
• Conference only in-person registration (April 24-25) includes: Two full days of conferences with simultaneous English-Spanish translation, lunches, Trade Connections exhibits, evening attractions tours and receptions, and transportation to and from Cancun Center to the EDUTours and receptions. Lodging, air transportation, and airport pickups are not included. 
• Conference only virtual registration (April 24-25) includes: Two full days of live and recorded conferences, presented in Spanish, and  ability to interact via IAAPA Connect+ application with in-person attendees and speakers. 

Your participation in the event will grant you the following CEUs for IAAPA recertification, according to your registration type:

• Full event: 24.5 CEUs
• On-site conference: 13.5 CEUs
• Online conference: 17.5 CEUs

Registration deadline: April 10, limited space.

Register here!

TRAVEL TO MEXICO

IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS

You must consider the immigration requirements to enter the country.

When you arrive to Mexico you will only need to present your valid passport and the Migratory Form for Tourist, Transmigrant, Business Visitor or Visitor Counselor, a form that you can obtain free of charge at travel agencies, airlines or at the point of entry. COVID-19 vaccination certificate is NOT required to enter Mexico.

Some countries may require visa, please verify before if you need one to enter Mexico.

Find the visa application here.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Accommodation is not included in the registration price. IAAPA has arranged for special group rates at the following hotels:

Krystal Altitude Cancun (formerly known as Krystal Grand Cancun) (1 block away from Cancun Center)
Punta Cancun, Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 8.5, Zona Hotelera, Cancun

$188 USD plus taxes, including breakfast.

Contact [email protected] to reserve.

Aloft Cancun Hotel (connected to Cancun Center)

Punta Cancun, Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9, Zona Hotelera, Cancun

$109 USD no breakfast or $119 USD with breakfast, plus taxes.

Contact [email protected] or WhatsApp +52 998 126 8080 to reserve.

WEATHER IN CANCUN AND RIVIERA MAYA DURING APRIL

Daily high temperatures range between 84°F and 86°F, rarely falling below 80°F or exceeding 89°F. 

Daily low temperatures range between 72°F and 74°F, rarely falling below 63°F or exceeding 79°F. 

The chance of a rain in April is around 14%. 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This event is not suitable for attendees under 18 years of age.

The event includes tours of attractions and rides that require physical exertion. Some attractions may have restrictions on use depending on the physical conditions of the user. For more information and special assistance needs contact [email protected]

This event will take place in Mexico.

Before traveling, please verify if you require a visa or any vaccinations with the Mexican consulate in your country.

IAAPA reserves the right to take, record, and use photographs, videos, recordings and any other record of the event for legitimate purposes, including commercial advertising.

Cancellation requests received before January 31, 2023 will receive a full refund minus a $50 processing fee per transaction. Cancellation requests received between February 1 and March 24 will receive a 50% refund minus processing fees. No refunds will be made after March 25.

If you need to cancel after these dates due to force majeure, including COVID-19 related causes and travel restrictions, please submit a written request to us for consideration. All cancellations are subject to a $50 USD processing fee. 

IAAPA Privacy Policy: /privacy-policy.

CODE OF CONDUCT

IAAPA provides the attractions industry with meaningful events that include education, networking and market access opportunities in an environment that promotes the exchange of ideas, information, and resources. IAAPA's goal is that everyone who attends our events has a positive and rewarding experience, including attendees, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and IAAPA team members.

The following Code of Conduct provides guidelines to ensure that all participants understand what behavior is expected and what behavior will not be tolerated during the event. This includes social events related to events at off-site locations and all online and social media communications related to the event. 

IAAPA has the right to expel any participants from the event who does not comply with this Code of Conduct. No refunds will be issued. In addition, IAAPA requests that both attendees and exhibitors report any observed violations to IAAPA staff.

1. Harrasment: IAAPA events provide a harassment-free, respectful and inclusive experience for all, regardless of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, physical appearance, body size, ethnicity, nationality, race, age or religion. Participants must refrain from any harassing, degrading, abusive or discriminatory behavior, including inappropriate photographs or recordings. 
2. Violence: There is a zero-tolerance policy for any display of violence, threats of violence or violent language directed against another person. This includes profanity, obscene gestures and offensive sexually explicit language. 
3. Suitcasing: Any non-exhibiting attendee soliciting business in the exhibit area or the public spaces or at another company's booth will be asked to leave the events immediately without any refund rights. 
4. Outboarding: Is defined as marketing, sales and hospitality events conducted by exhibitors and others who capitalize on the presence of buyers and/or sellers attending the original events organizer. This practice is unethical and subject to expulsion from the event of the participants involved.

SPONSORSHIP AND TRADE CONNECTIONS

Are you interested in expanding your presence in Latin America and the Caribbean?

TRADE CONNECTIONS

Generate high-value business connections with the industry's star players!

Discover the latest products and services that industry suppliers and manufacturers are offering to enhance the visitor experience and drive repeat visits. Explore the booths and make new connections with colleagues and find the perfect opportunity to take your business to the next level.

Discover and experience the latest products and trends in:

• Rides
• Water attractions
• Theming and lightning
• Technology
• Multimedia experiences
• Adventure attractions
• Park designers
• Food and beverage
• Aquatic safety
• Family entertainment centers

 

Increase your brand visibility, present your products and services and connect with events attendees through Trade Connections. 

Fee: IAAPA Members: 2,500 USD | Not-yet-members 3,500

Your participation fee includes: 

• 5+ hours of dedicated exhibition time
• One complimentary registration to the Conference (worth $390)
• A 3x3-meter exhibit space fitted with a customized backdrop graphic of your choice, a skirted table, two chairs, and one electrical outlet
• A quarter-page feature in the event digital program
• Additional exposure in our interactive platform IAAPA Connect+

 

Deadline to purchase your booth: March 15 (last places available)

Deadline to send graphics and materials: March 15

SPONSORSHIP

Expand your presence in Latin America and the Caribbean through our different Sponsorship packages, including:

• Sponsor recognition in pre-, onsite and post-event communications. 
• Free access to events.
• A complimentary Trade Connections booth. Live or pre-recorded presentations for Gold and Presenting sponsors. 
• Additional exposure in our interactive platform IAAPA Connect+

Deadline to submit your contract: April 1st

Sponsorship and Trade Connections opportunities available!

English           Spanish 

Please contact Gabriela Cerros for more details on Sponsorship and Trade Connections opportunities.

AGENDA

Program subject to change. Presented in English and Spanish with simultaneous interpretation. All times are local times (EST).

Conference and Expo Day 1: Monday, April 24, 2023

Note: Educational sessions, coffee breaks, lunch, transportation from the convention center to Sky Wheel Cancun, and reception are included in Conference and Full Event registration.

8 a.m. Registration

9 a.m. Opening Ceremony

Listen to the authorities of Quintana Roo and IAAPA welcoming attendees to the Summit and to this incredible tourist and entertainment destination. Learn more about the latest industry news in the region and get ready for a unique and inspiring experience in Cancun and Riviera Maya!

10 a.m. The Magic of Cancun: From the Dream to the Challenges of Growth in Quintana Roo, Mexico

Discover the essence of this internationally acclaimed destination and find out what Cancun and Quintana Roo mean to the entire world. Learn about the planning, history, evolution, and synergy of the different sectors that make Cancun one of the busiest and most important tourist and entertainment destinations worldwide.

Presented by:

• Bernardo Cueto, Secretary of Tourism of the State of Quintana Roo
• Javier Aranda, Executive Director, Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council
• Fernando Martí, Writer, chronicler and journalist.

Moderado por: Giselle Escalante, Coordinadora de la Licenciatura en Dirección de Empresas de Entretenimiento en Universidad Anáhuac, México Norte

10:45 a.m. Trade Connections and Connections Coffee

Discover the latest products and services that industry vendors and manufacturers offer to enhance the visitor experience. Explore the stands, featuring products for water parks, theme parks, multimedia and technology, participatory games, adventure rides, ride design, water safety, food and beverage, mobility, and more. Make new connections with colleagues and find the perfect opportunity to take your business to the next level.

Coffee sponsored by Storyland Studios.

12:45 p.m. Passion and Talent: Current Leadership Qualities

Get inspired by the experience of a group of successful women in key professional positions who will help you discover the leadership qualities that are needed to lead in the entertainment industry today, sharing their motivations and ideas to inspire and guide you to achieve your goals.

Presented by:

• Valeria Cañón, Human Resources and Administration Director, Aquopolis, Aerópolis, El Griego
• Cecilia Garro, Marketing Director, Ventura Entertainment
• Elizabeth Lugo, Executive Director of Operations, Grupo Xcaret
• Paula Negrete, Director of Operations El Dorado Resort, Grupo Karisma
• Claudia Sosa, Commercial Director, The Dolphin Company

1:30 p.m. Connections Lunch and Trade Connections

Make valuable business connections through effective exchange with some of the industry's leading suppliers, explore new opportunities that fuel your business growth, and build a secure network of allies for success.

3:30 p.m. Inclusion and Accessibility in the Industry: Train Staff to Serve your Guests

Engage your team with a fresh perspective on IDEA: inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. Integrate these ideas into staff training at your park or attraction and be part of the change to improve your guest experience. Stay up to date with the latest trends and discover new ways to deliver a diverse and inclusive experience for all.

Presented by:

• Alessandra Gavito, Senior Manager of Global Sustainability, KidZania
• Amanda Ribeiro, Executive Director, Incluir Treinamentos
• Mariana Ruiz, Corporate Director of Human Talent, Grupo Xcaret

4:15 p.m. Connect with the New Generations: Development of Soft Skills

Develop your soft skills to form more effective work teams and become the leader your organization needs to face the challenges of the new era. Understand and learn how to better communicate with the younger generations to make your projects successful. Discover the importance of a motivated, united team with common goals.

Presented by:

• Adrea Gibbs, Experience Consultant
• Valeria Cañón, Human Resources and Administration Director, Aquopolis, Aerópolis, El Griego

4:55 p.m. Connections Coffee

Take advantage of this break to greet your colleagues and friends and strengthen your relationships. This opportunity will allow you to get out of the routine of the educational program and enjoy a short break, ideal for informally connecting with your peers in a refreshing and fun way. 

Sponsored by Storyland Studios.

5:10 p.m. Solutions Talk

Storyland Studios specialists will present an unmissable talk for all parks and attractions enthusiasts. Discover the latest innovations that this design and production brand has created to provide unique, immersive experiences.

5:20 p.m. The Attractions Industry, Synonymous of Innovation and Passion

Discover the latest trends in the entertainment industry from the point of view of Jim Pattison, Jr., Chairman of Ripley Entertainment and IAAPA Chairman of the Board. Jim Pattison, Jr. leads a company with more than 100 years of history that owns, operates and franchises more than 100 family attractions in 11 countries and serves 15 million visitors a year, from attractions, museums, and aquariums to shows and family entertainment centers.

Presented by: 

• Jim Pattinson, Jr., President, Ripley Entertainment and IAAPA Chairman of the Board

6 - 8 p.m. Reception at Sky Wheel Cancun and Ripley's Believe it or Not! Cancun

End this day full of knowledge with an extra dose of motivation, enjoying these impressive attractions and connecting with your colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere.

Conference and Expo Day 2: Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Note: Educational sessions, coffee breaks, lunch, transportation from the convention center to Ventura Park, and reception are included in Conference and Full Event registration.

8:30 a.m. Connections Coffee

Sponsored by Storyland Studios.

9:00 a.m. Second Day Welcome by Xavier López

Message to take advantage of all the networking and learning opportunities at the IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean.

Presented by: 

• Xavier López Ancona, CEO, KidZania

9:10 a.m. Revolutionizing the Visitor Experience

Technology is rewriting the experience of parks and attractions and redefining the way guests interact with the brand. From digital apps to virtual reality games, the use of technology enhances the way guests enjoy attractions, allowing them to experience entertainment in a completely unique and unforgettable way.

Presented by:

• Guido Benassini, Executive Director, Ventura Entertainment

10:10 a.m. Leadership that Inspires: Turn Dreams into Experiences to Build a Successful Career

Get inspired by a panel of renowned entrepreneurs, industry leaders who have transformed the industry. It's time to turn dreams into professional succeses.

Presented by:

• Eduardo Albor, CEO, The Dolphin Company
• René Aziz, President and CEO, Fun Group
• Luciana Periales, CEO, Neverland
• Miguel Quintana, Founder and CEO, Grupo Xcaret

Moderated by Valeria Cañón, Directora administrativa y de recursos humanos, Aquopolis, Aerópolis, El Griego

11:10 a.m. Trade Connections and Connections Coffee

Learn more about what industry vendors and manufacturers offer to enhance the visitor experience. Visit the stands, meet new friends, and exchange ideas with your colleagues. 

Coffee sponsored by Storyland Studios.

12:30 Creating a Sustainable Future for the Industry

Explore the innovative way the industry is approaching sustainability. Discover the various approaches to business action, as well as concrete examples of change being made to create a sustainable future.

Presented by:

• Alessandra Gavito, Senior Manager of Global Sustainability, KidZania
• Raquel Kieling, Project Manager and Senior Designer, FORREC
• Iliana Rodríguez, Director of Sustainability and Institutional Relations, Grupo Xcaret

1:18 p.m. Connections Lunch and Trade Connections

Make valuable business connections through effective exchange with some of the industry's leading suppliers, explore new opportunities that fuel your business growth, and build a secure network of allies for success.

3:10 p.m. 51 Ideas to Increase Per Capita Spending

Are you looking to increase your visitor spending at your park or attraction? Listen to these many options and choose the ones that best fit your operation. From special offers to new events, we bring you great ideas that are sure to fit your needs. Don't wait any longer to discover how you can improve your business!

Presented by:

• Massimiliano Freddi, Founder and CEO, Wonderwood Park, and Second Vice Chair of the IAAPA Board of Directors

3:55 p.m. Merchandising Trends for your Souvenir Operation

An attractive display and a well-designed marketing strategy can do wonders for your souvenir shop and the image of your business. Learn the best tips for finding the right product, the ideal location, the store design that best suits your target audience, and the use of digital tools to promote products. Extend the experience beyond the visit and strengthen your brand. 

Presented by:

• Pedro Brolo, General Manager, Visual Merchandising

4:40 p.m. Solutions Talk

iCombat specialists present this talk dedicated to innovations in design and equipment for laser tag attractions. From the instruments to the software, specially designed in detail to offer a first level game.

4:50 p.m. Connections Coffee

Take advantage of this break to greet your colleagues and friends and strengthen your relationships. This opportunity will allow you to get out of the routine of the educational program and enjoy a short break, ideal for informally connecting with your peers in a refreshing and fun way.

Sponsored by Storyland Studios.

5:05 p.m. Reinvention and Innovation: Stay Current

Listen to inspiring ideas to promote the culture of innovation and change. Encourage employees to think outside the box to develop fresh, creative solutions that are effective, fun, and enhance the visitor experience. Encourage your team to be flexible, experiment and even take risks to keep visitors smiling

6 - 9 p.m. Tour and Reception at Ventura Park

End the day with a behind-the-scenes tour and reception at Ventura Park, a family park featuring an amusement park, water park, zip lines, bungee jumping, children's activities, arcade games and a dolphinarium.

EDUTours in Riviera Maya Day 1: Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Note: Transportation from and to Cancun Center, educational tours, lunch and reception included in Full Event registration.

9 a.m. Departure from Cancun Center for Nickelodeon Hotel & Resort Riviera Maya

10:30 a.m. EDUTour at Nickelodeon Hotel & Resort Riviera Maya

Experience Nickelodeon's first-ever themed resort, which includes a kids' water park with their favorite characters, and learn about theming, licensing, merchandise sales, and hotel and water park operations.

12:30 p.m. Departure for Jungala Aqua Experience by Vidanta

Jungala Aqua Experience is an exclusive water park designed to provide a VIP experience that includes concierge service, private cabanas, and controlled assistance, all within a spectacular jungle setting. After a private lunch in Jungala, learn from your differentiators and excellence in visitor service to create unforgettable experiences.

1 p.m. Lunch and EDUTour at Jungala Aqua Experience by Vidanta

4 p.m. Departure for Xavage from Grupo Xcaret

4:30 p.m. EDUTour and Reception in Xavage by Grupo Xcaret

Xavage is an adrenaline park that offers activities such as zip lines, kayaking, rafting and motor boats. We will have the opportunity to learn more about their security procedures and operations and enjoy their unique environment. The day will end with a connections reception at Xavage.

7:30 p.m. Departure for Hotel Grand Krystal

EDUTours in Riviera Maya Day 2: Thursday, April 27, 2023

Note: Transportation from and to Cancun Center, educational tours, lunch and dinner show included in Full Event registration.

9 a.m. Departure from Cancun Center for Xplor and Xenses

10:30 a.m. EDUTours and lunch at Xplor and Xenses by Grupo Xcaret

To streamline logistics and tour experience, the group will be divided into two. Group  1 will visit Xplor first and Xenses later. Group 2 will visit Xenses first and Xplor later. The two groups will have lunch together at Xplor.

The Xplor adventure park has hidden caverns and underground rivers, giant water slides and amazing zip lines. Learn more about their extraordinary use of underground caverns to create incredible activities.

Xenses Theme Park is a unique park designed to discover and enhance your senses through fantastic activities and settings. Learn from the operation of this exceptional park to create immersive adventures for its visitors.

4:30 p.m. Departure for Luchatitlán in Cancun

6 - 9:30 p.m. Dinner Show in Luchatitlán

Each space in Luchatitlán is designed to provide an immersive experience that evokes the golden era of traditional Mexican wrestling, including traditional dishes, the ring, masks and heroic characters. Dinner and the show are included in the experience.

9 - 9:30 p.m. Departure for Hotel Grand Krystal

Register here!

For more details about the summit contact us at [email protected]